Comparing Voriconazole and Itraconazole in Treating Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis
|
Reviewed & Translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on April 10th, 2026
|
|
Chronic pulmonary infection with the Aspergillus fumigatus fungus imposes a heavy burden in developing tropical nations like Vietnam and India. The condition is treatable with a 6 to 12 month regimen of oral azole antifungal. Voriconazole is favored due to its high bioavailability, but itraconazole is also viable due to its affordability and better safety profile. To better understand what would be the optimal treatment option, a study was conducted to compare voriconazole to itraconazole in treating chronic pulmonary aspergillosis.
|
Treating Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer with mutated EGFR using Sacituzumab Tirumotecan
|
Reviewed & Translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on February 13th, 2026
|
|
Tumors of patients with non-small cell lung cancer express a high level of receptor for epidermal growth factor (EGFR). Because these receptors are important for tumor proliferation, targeting them with EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKI) has been an effective strategy to manage the cancer. However, mutation to EGFR can happen, and this leads to resistance against the EGFR-TKI. In these cases, a study was conducted to explore the usage of sacituzumab tirumotecan as an alternative means of treatment.
|
RSV Vaccine Effectiveness at Reducing Hospitalization in the Elderly
|
Reviewed & Translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on February 11th, 2026
|
|
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection has become more prevalent in the recent years post pandemic. For elderly patients, these RSV infections can lead to fatal outcomes. There exists a vaccine to prevent RSV infection, and it has been proven to be highly effective at preventing RSV-related lower respiratory tract. To further explore the benefit of this vaccine, a study was conducted to investigate its ability to prevent hospitalization in the elderly.
|
Osimertinib plus Chemotherapy for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer with Mutated EGFR
|
Reviewed & Translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on February 2nd, 2026
|
|
Osimertinib is a third-generation epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Prior studies have demonstrated that osimertinib is more effective in treating non–small cell lung cancer than earlier-generation EGFR inhibitors and platinum-based chemotherapy. Separately, recent evidence has shown that combining platinum-based chemotherapy with the second-generation EGFR inhibitor gefitinib leads to improved clinical outcomes compared with gefitinib alone. Building on these findings, a study funded by AstraZeneca was conducted to evaluate whether adding platinum-based chemotherapy to osimertinib could further improve outcomes.
|
Treating Tuberculosis Meningitis with High-Dose Oral Rifampin
|
Reviewed & Translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on January 30th, 2026
|
|
Treating tuberculosis meningitis is challenging due to the complicated medical regimen, the increased prevalence of resistance, and the medication inability to penetrate into the cerebrospinal fluid. This resulted in a lower clinical outcome and a high mortality rate in patients with HIV comorbidity. A study funded by the U.K. Medical Research Council, was conducted to assess the usage of a high-dose rifampin regimen to treat tuberculosis meningitis.
|
Effectiveness of High-Dose Seasonal Influenza Vaccine in Preventing Hospitalization in Older Adults
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on January 19th, 2026
|
|
Every flu season, vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, are the most heavily affected. For these older individuals, the vaccine effectiveness at preventing hospitalization, which is already low and varied, can be worse than the average population. With funding from Sanofi, a study was conducted to test the effectiveness of a higher dose influenza vaccine; the study has recently published its findings in the New England Journal of Medicine.
|
Managing Community-Acquired Pneumonia with Glucocorticoids in Resource-Limited Settings
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on January 12th, 2026
|
|
Previous studies had found that glucocorticoids can help reduce the inflammation in patients with community-acquired pneumonia. However, most of these studies were conducted in well-resourced settings and excluded chronic disease commonly found in limited resource settings such as HIV and tuberculosis. With funding from the Wellcome Trust, a study was conducted to assess the usage of glucocorticoids in treating community-acquired pneumonia in a limited resource setting.
|
Novel mRNA Vaccine to Prevent Seasonal Influenza
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on December 12th, 2025
|
|
There are currently two types of vaccines used to prevent influenza: the injectable inactivated influenza vaccine and the live attenuated influenza vaccine. Drawing on experience gained from developing the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, Pfizer has applied mRNA vaccine technology to create a new influenza vaccine. A study evaluating its safety and effectiveness was recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine.
|
Pain Management with Dexmedetomidine in Patients with Traumatic Rib Fractures
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on December 5th, 2025
|
|
Pain control in patients with traumatic rib fractures is difficult to achieve. Common options such as acetaminophen, NSAIDs, and muscle relaxants often provide insufficient relief, while stronger agents like opioids carry risks of addiction and respiratory depression. To explore alternative strategies, researchers at the University of California conducted a study evaluating dexmedetomidine for pain management in this population.
|
Combination of Amivantamab and Lazertinib to Treat Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on November 26th, 2025
|
|
Chemotherapies that target the epidermal growth factor receptor signaling pathway (EGFR-TKIs) have been central to treating non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, even the most advanced third-generation agents offer only moderate benefit, with median survival around three years and a 5-year survival rate below 20%. Resistance to current therapies continues to emerge, highlighting the need for new treatment strategies. With support from Janssen, researchers conducted a study evaluating the combined use of amivantamab and lazertinib in NSCLC.
|
Using Sotatercept to Manage Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on November 21st, 2025
|
|
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is characterized by the narrowing of pulmonary blood vessels, which limits blood flow to the lungs and impairs gas exchange. Current treatment options offer only partial benefit and do not fully halt disease progression, morbidity, or mortality. Supported by Merck, a recent study investigated the potential of sotatercept as a novel therapy for managing PAH.
|
Investigate the Effectiveness of Carbocisteine & Hypertonic Saline for Bronchiectasis Management
Topic: RESPIRATORY
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on November 17th, 2025
|
|
Patients with bronchiectasis often experience excessive mucus production that interferes with normal respiratory function. Current clinical guidelines recommend the use of mucoactive medications and airway clearance agents to facilitate sputum expectoration, but these recommendations are largely based on low-quality evidence. To address this gap, the British government funded a study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of mucolytic therapy in bronchiectasis management.
|
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Prevention with Clesrovimab
|
Reviewed & Translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on October 24th, 2025
|
|
Respiratory syncytial virus infection is the leading cause of infant hospitalization, with the disease severity highest for infants below 6 months old. Many studies had found monoclonal antibodies such as nirsevimab and palivizumab to be an effective preventive measure for RSV infection in infants. With funding from Merck, a study was conducted to investigate the usage of clesrovimab to prevent RSV infection in young children.
|
Evaluating Ziresovir for the Treatment of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection in Infants
|
Reviewed & Translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on September 24th, 2025
|
|
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of lower respiratory tract infection and hospitalization in infants and young children. Current recommendations advise vaccinating children born during, or about to enter, their first RSV season. However, vaccination is not always feasible, highlighting the need for effective antiviral therapies. To address this gap, a study funded by Shanghai Ark Biopharmaceutical investigated the use of ziresovir in treating RSV infection in young children.
|
Nirsevimab Provides Extended Protection Against RSV-Associated Hospitalization in Infants
|
Reviewed & Translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on September 15th, 2025
|
|
Nirsevimab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the F protein used by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) to enter host cells. Earlier studies demonstrated its effectiveness in preventing hospitalization among children, but with a half-life of 71 days, it remained unclear whether protection would extend across the typical four-month RSV season. To address this question, Sanofi and AstraZeneca sponsored a study evaluating the long-term protective effect of nirsevimab.
|
Treating Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer with Limertinib, a 3rd Generation EGFR Inhibitor
|
Reviewed & Translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on August 22nd, 2025
|
|
Mutation to the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) significantly increases the risk of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). As a result, inhibiting the EGFR signaling pathway becomes an ideal therapeutic target. EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors have been shown to be effective at managing NSCLC, but resistance has been shown to be an obstacle. With funding from Jiangsu Aosaikang Pharmaceutical, a study was conducted to investigate the usage of limertinib to treat non-small-cell lung cancer.
|
Tartalamab as a Second-Line Therapy for Small-Cell Lung Cancer
|
Reviewed & Translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on August 15th, 2025
|
|
Small-cell lung cancer is one of the most severe with only 5% of the patients surviving past 5 years. Platinum-based chemotherapy and PD-L1 inhibitors are the first-line therapy for the condition; however, these therapies do not significantly increase survivability. Existing second-line therapies are equally ineffective with intolerable hematological side effects. With funding from Amgen, a study was conducted to assess the usage of tarlatamab to treat small-cell lung cancer.
|
Methotrexate vs. Prednisone as the First Line Treatment for Pulmonary Sarcoidosis
|
Reviewed & Translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on August 6th, 2025
|
|
Prednisone is the first-line therapy to treat the inflammation associated with pulmonary sarcoidosis. However, this treatment is recommended based on dated and low quality studies. Additionally, prolonged prednisone usage is associated with significant side effects. Recently, a study funded by the Dutch Lung Foundation was conducted to evaluate the replacement of prednisone with methotrexate in treating pulmonary sarcoidosis.
|
Combining Albuterol and Budesonide to Prevent Asthma Exacerbation
|
Reviewed & Translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on July 28th, 2025
|
|
Short-acting β2-agonist, such as albuterol. is frequently used to prevent and treat asthma exacerbation. However, its lack of immunomodulation property limits its effectiveness. Therefore, combining albuterol and an inhaled glucocorticoids like budesonide increases the efficacy beyond monotherapy. A study funded by AstraZeneca was conducted to analyze the combination of albuterol and budesonide to prevent exacerbation in mild asthma.
|
Assessing the Risk of Neuropsychiatric Adverse Events with Montelukast Usage in Children & Adolescents
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on July 16th, 2025
|
|
Montelukast is widely used to manage asthma and allergic rhinitis in children and adolescents. However, recent surveillance data had found an association between montelukast usage and the frequency of neuropsychiatric adverse events. Yet, the mechanism behind this effect is not well understood, but it is hypothesized that the agent can interfere with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. With funding from the Swedish Asthma and Allergy Association, a study was conducted to assess the potential neuropsychiatric side effect of montelukast.
|
Comparing the Ceftolozane–Tazobactam & Ceftazidime–Avibactam Combinations in Treating Multidrug Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on June 23rd, 2025
|
|
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a prevalent bacterial pathogen, and infections caused by multidrug-resistant strains pose a significant clinical threat. While the antibiotic combinations ceftolozane–tazobactam and ceftazidime–avibactam have shown efficacy against resistant strains, limited data exist comparing their performance across different clinical scenarios. To address this gap and support the refinement of treatment guidelines, a study funded by Merck was conducted to evaluate their relative effectiveness.
|
Managing Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension with Sotatercept
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on June 20th, 2025
|
|
Pulmonary arterial hypertension, if left untreated or poorly controlled, can progress to right ventricular failure and ultimately lead to death. While current therapies can slow disease progression, they have not demonstrated a consistent ability to prevent critical outcomes such as hospitalization, lung transplantation, or mortality. To address this unmet need, a study funded by Merck investigated the use of sotatercept as a potential disease-modifying therapy for PAH.
|
Nirsevimab Demonstrates Durable Efficacy in Preventing RSV-Related Hospitalizations in Children
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on June 16th, 2025
|
|
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of lower respiratory tract infections in infants. Nirsevimab, a monoclonal antibody that targets the RSV F protein to block viral fusion, has previously shown promise in preventing infection. A recent study funded by AstraZeneca and Sanofi has now reported on the long-term protective effects of nirsevimab.
|
Impact of Long-Term Tiotropium Usage on Dementia Risk
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on June 13th, 2025
|
|
Medications that interfere with acetylcholine signaling have been linked to cognitive decline. Long-acting antimuscarinic agents like tiotropium, commonly prescribed for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), have known anticholinergic effects, but their impact on neurological function remains unclear. Previous studies on this topic have been limited by poor design. To address this gap, a study funded by the Brain Canada Foundation examined whether tiotropium use is associated with an increased risk of developing dementia.
|
Anti-IL-5 Therapy, Mepolizumab, Shows Promise in COPD Management
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on May 28th, 2025
|
|
Eosinophilic inflammation plays a significant role in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with interleukin-5 (IL-5) driving eosinophil maturation and activation. To evaluate a targeted approach, GlaxoSmithKline sponsored a study examining the efficacy of mepolizumab—an anti-IL-5 monoclonal antibody—in managing COPD.
|
Cytisinicline Shows Promise as a Well-Tolerated and Effective Aid for Smoking Cessation
Topic: RESPIRATORY
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on May 21st, 2025
|
|
Smoking is one of the most prevalent risk factors contributing to millions of preventable deaths each year. While several smoking cessation aids such as bupropion and varenicline are currently available, their limited long-term effectiveness and notable side effect profiles highlight the need for new alternatives. Backed by funding from the biotechnology company Achieve Life Sciences, a clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of cytisinicline in reducing nicotine cravings.
|
Baloxavir Shows Promise in Reducing Household Transmission of Influenza
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on May 19th, 2025
|
|
While often regarded as a seasonal inconvenience for healthy adults, influenza can pose a serious, even fatal, threat to children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Each flu season typically involves the circulation of four distinct influenza strains, all of which are included in the annually updated vaccine. However, because the vaccine formulation relies on predictive modeling of which strains will dominate, its effectiveness varies from year to year and can be suboptimal. Although antivirals for influenza are available, there is limited conclusive evidence supporting their ability to reduce transmission. In pursuit of new options, Roche sponsored a study to evaluate the potential of baloxavir to lower influenza contagiousness.
|
Brensocatib Reduces Exacerbation Risk and Slows Lung Function Decline in Patients with Bronchiectasis
Topic: RESPIRATORY
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on May 16th, 2025
|
|
Patients with bronchiectasis typically present with a chronic cough and excessive sputum production. The progressive decline in lung function associated with this disease is largely driven by neutrophil-mediated inflammation and damage to the mucociliary membrane. Current clinical guidelines generally recommend the use of mucoactive agents to alleviate symptoms and antibiotics to prevent bacterial infections. Recently, a study funded by Insmed and published in The New England Journal of Medicine examined the use of brensocatib, a drug aimed at managing bronchiectasis by inhibiting neutrophil activity.
|
Tezepelumab Shows Promise in Reducing Nasal Polyps and Symptoms in Chronic Rhinosinusitis
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on April 28th, 2025
|
|
Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps is typically managed with glucocorticoids and biologic therapies targeting various components of the type 2 inflammatory pathway. However, current treatments are not universally effective, highlighting the need for therapies that act through alternative mechanisms. To address this gap, AstraZeneca sponsored a study to evaluate the efficacy of tezepelumab in treating this condition.
|
Evaluating the Use of Levofloxacin to Prevent MDR Tuberculosis Transmission in Children
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on January 29th, 2025
|
|
Young children under the age of 5 are particularly vulnerable to developing symptomatic diseases following exposure to Mycobacterium tuberculosis. In cases of multidrug-resistant (MDR) tuberculosis, managing the infection becomes significantly more expensive and complex. The current approach to controlling the spread of MDR tuberculosis in young children involves household contact tracing from individuals recently diagnosed with the infection. A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine explored the use of levofloxacin to prevent the transmission of MDR bacteria in young children.
|
Managing Severe Eosinophilic Asthma with Depemokimab, an Interleukin-5 Inhibitor
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on January 27th, 2025
|
|
The cytokine interleukin-5 plays an important role in exacerbating asthma by promoting the growth and activation of eosinophils. Antibodies, such as mepolizumab, that inhibit the IL-5 signaling pathway have been proven to be effective at reducing asthma severity and glucocorticoids dependency. Depemokimab is a novel ultra-long-acting antibody with a higher affinity for IL-5, which effectiveness in managing asthma has been assessed by a study funded by GlaxoSmithKline.
|
Exploring the Use of Levofloxacin as a Prophylaxis to Prevent Household Transmission of Multidrug Resistant Tuberculosis in Vietnam
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on January 20th, 2025
|
|
The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria has reversed the progress made in controlling infectious diseases, making them a significant public health threat once again, with tuberculosis being one of the key concerns. Patients infected with MDR tuberculosis have lower treatment success rates and experience more severe disease compared to those with susceptible strains. Levofloxacin is one of the antibiotics used to treat MDR tuberculosis, and the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia has funded a study to investigate the use of levofloxacin as a prophylactic measure to prevent the spread of MDR tuberculosis among individuals living with infected patients.
|
Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of Amivantamab and Lazertinib in Treating EGFR-Mutated NSCLC
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on December 2nd, 2024
|
|
Mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) are common in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer, leading to a reduced 5-year survival rate of just 19%. Osimertinib is the current first-line therapy for these patients, working by inhibiting the kinase activity of EGFR (EGFR-TKI). However, nearly all patients eventually develop resistance to osimertinib and other third-generation EGFR-TKIs. To address this issue, Janssen sponsored a study to evaluate the efficacy of amivantamab and lazertinib in treating non-small-cell lung cancer with EGFR mutations.
|
Evaluating the Efficacy of Durvalumab with or without Tremelimumab in Treating Small-Cell Lung Cancer
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on November 25th, 2024
|
|
Small-cell lung cancer accounts for 15% of all lung cancer cases and is currently treated with thoracic radiotherapy and platinum–etoposide chemotherapy. Despite these treatments, the majority of patients experience relapse within two years, with around 30% dying within five years. Durvalumab and tremelimumab are two immunotherapy antibodies that counteract the immune-suppressing effects of PD-L1 and CTLA-4 on cancer cells. These antibodies have shown effectiveness in treating various cancers, including non–small-cell lung cancer. As a result, AstraZeneca sponsored a study to evaluate their potential in treating small-cell lung cancer.
|
Assessment of Ziresovir as a Treatment for RSV Infection in Hospitalized Pediatric Patients
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on November 6th, 2024
|
|
Currently, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection can be effectively treated with monoclonal antibodies such as palivizumab and nirsevimab. However, young children who are contraindicated for antibodies, ribavirin is the only treatment approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Another possible alternative is ziresovir, an antiviral that can bind to and inhibit the F protein of RSV. Thus, Shanghai Ark Biopharmaceutical had sponsored a study to assess the efficacy of ziresovir in treating RSV infection in pediatric patients.
|
Efficacy of Bisoprolol in Reducing the Risk Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder Exacerbation
Topic: RESPIRATORY
|
Reviewed & translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on Octber 30th, 2024
|
|
Bisoprolol, a β1-selective β-blocker, is widely prescribed for managing hypertension, ischemic heart disease, and heart failure. Observational studies have previously suggested that the use of β1-selective β-blockers for cardiovascular conditions may be linked to a reduction in chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) exacerbations. Consequently, a study was undertaken to investigate the potential role of bisoprolol in the management of COPD.
|
Efficacy of Osimertinib in EGFR-Mutated, Unresectable Stage III Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
|
Reviewed & translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on September 25th, 2024
|
|
Due to the nature of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), most cases are not suitable for surgical resection, making chemoradiotherapy combined with durvalumab the standard treatment. Previous research has shown that NSCLC patients with mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tend to have poorer prognosis. Osimertinib, an EGFR inhibitor, was recently evaluated for its effectiveness in treating EGFR-mutated NSCLC in a study sponsored by AstraZeneca.
|
Impact of Respiratory Syncytial Virus on Cardiovascular Health in Older Adults
|
Reviewed & translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on September 20th, 2024
|
|
Previous epidemiological studies have shown that respiratory infections caused by SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza can elevate the risk of acute cardiovascular disease and mortality, particularly in older adults. While respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a frequent cause of seasonal respiratory infections, its impact on cardiovascular health has not been thoroughly investigated. To address this gap, the Centers for Disease Control funded a study to assess the risk of cardiac complications in older adults hospitalized due to RSV infection.
|
Real Life Effectiveness of Nirsevimab in Preventing Bronchiolitis Associated with Respiratory Syncytial Virus in Infants
|
Reviewed & translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on August 28th, 2024
|
|
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the leading cause of lower respiratory tract infections, such as bronchiolitis, in children. With its extended in vivo half-life and strong neutralizing ability, Nirsevimab was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency in early 2023 for use as a pre-exposure prophylaxis against RSV. A study, recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine, evaluated the real-world effectiveness of nirsevimab in preventing hospitalizations due to RSV-associated bronchiolitis in children.
|
Managing Type 2 Inflammation in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder with Dupilumab
|
Reviewed & translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on August 12th, 2024
|
|
The current standard treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder include glucocorticoids, long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) and long-acting beta agonist (LABA). In certain cases, disease extraction exacerbation happens even when the maximum dose of the two standard therapy has been administered. Dupilumab is a monoclonal antibody that can dampen type 2 inflammation by interfering with the interleukin-4 and interleukin-13 pathways. Because COPD is driven by type 2 inflammation, Sanofi and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals had sponsored a study to assess the effectiveness of dupilumab in managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder.
|
Efficacy of a 9-Month Oral Treatment Regimen for Rifampicin-Resistant Tuberculosis
|
Reviewed & translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on July 10th, 2024
|
|
Vietnam is classified by the World Health Organization as a country significantly impacted by tuberculosis, with 5% of cases exhibiting multidrug resistance. Before 2019, the standard treatment for multidrug-resistant and rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis involved a 24-month course of injectable medications. In 2020, recommendations shifted to a 9-month oral regimen. A recent study published in The Lancet evaluated the efficacy of this shorter oral treatment regimen.
|
Increase the Effectiveness of E-Cigarette Cessation with Cytisinicline
Topic: RESPIRATORY
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on June 24th, 2024
|
|
With the increase in popularity in vaping and e-cigarette containing nicotine, regulatory agencies have identified that there is a gap in knowledge on the effectiveness of nicotine replacement therapy on e-cigarette cessation. Cytisinicline is an agonist that can inhibit the α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors which can reduce the dependence on nicotine. As a result, the National Institute of Drug Abuse had funded a study to assess the efficacy of cytisinicline on vaping cessation.
|
Concurrent Usage of Nivolumab and Platinum-based Chemotherapy before and after Surgery for Resectable Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on May 31st, 2024
|
|
Nivolumab is an monoclonal antibody that enhances the immune clearance of tumor cell by inhibiting the PD-1 receptor. Neoadjuvant usage of nivolumab and platinum-based chemotherapy had significantly reduced the risk of death and disease recurrence in patients with resectable non–small-cell lung cancer. As a result, a study investigated the perioperative usage of nivolumab, before and after surgery, can improve clinical outcome by neutralizing residual tumor cells and inhibiting micrometastasis.
|
Assessing Azithromycin's Impact on Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia in Preterm Infants
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on May 3rd, 2024
|
|
Because of their premature birth, infants born before 30 gestational weeks are at a heightened risk of developing bronchopulmonary dysplasia, a condition marked by interrupted lung development. Factors such as pulmonary colonization with Ureaplasma bacteria and inflammation mediated by neutrophils contribute to this risk. Azithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic, has the ability to combat bacteria and has been linked to reduced neutrophil activity and chemotaxis. Consequently, a study was undertaken to evaluate the impact of azithromycin on managing bronchopulmonary dysplasia in preterm infants.
|
Investigating the efficacy of Alectinib, an ALK inhibitor, in ALK-Positive Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on April 29th, 2024
|
|
Approximately 5% of all cases of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) exhibit rearrangement to the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene. This specific subset of NSCLC can be treated with platinum-based combination chemotherapy; however, this regimen has modest improvements to the survival rate and it has a relatively high risk of disease recurrence. Alectinib is an ALK inhibitor, and a study has been conducted to assess its efficacy in managing ALK-positive NSCLC.
|
Repotrecitinib in ROS1 Fusion-Positive Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
|
Reviewed & translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on March 4th, 2024
|
|
Mutation in the ROS1 receptor, a crucial tyrosine kinase, accounts for 2% of all non-small-cell lung cancer cases. Currently, Crizotinib and Entrecitinib are the two ROS1 inhibitors in use. However, resistance to these inhibitors has emerged in half of all cases, and their limited activity within the brain reduces their efficacy in metastatic scenarios. Repotrecitinib, a novel small molecule ROS1 antagonist, represents a next-generation option capable of penetrating the brain easily and overcoming steric hindrance—a common resistance mechanism. A recent study has published its findings on the efficacy of Repotrecitinib in treating ROS1 fusion-positive non-small-cell lung cancer.
|
Examining the Impact of Household Air Pollution on Child Growth
|
Reviewed & translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on February 28th, 2024
|
|
It has been hypothesized that exposure to indoor air pollution in households may contribute to growth impairment in children. The precise mechanism behind this phenomenon remains unclear, but it is plausible that pollutants trigger heightened oxidative stress and lead to a state of mild immunosuppression, necessitating increased energy expenditure. In low and middle-income countries, young children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of indoor air pollutants due to the significant amount of time spent at home, especially in households where biomass fuels such as coal and wood are used for heating and cooking. Consequently, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation funded a study to investigate whether adopting a less polluted energy source like liquefied petroleum gas could mitigate the risk of growth impairment.
|
The Impact of Liquefied Petroleum Gas vs. Biomass Stove Use on Infant Respiratory Health
|
Reviewed & translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on February 26th, 2024
|
|
Exposure to household pollutants contributes to 30% of pediatric pneumonia-related mortality. Prior observational research has linked exposure to particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometers to an elevated risk of pneumonia. Burning biomass, including wood and charcoal, generates these harmful substances. Given that many households in low and middle-income countries rely on biomass for cooking fuel, a study was undertaken to compare the respiratory effects of using liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) versus biomass.
|
Effectiveness of Nirsevimab in preventing Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infection in healthy infants
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on February 19th, 2024
|
|
Nirsevimab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the pre-fusion form of the F-protein on the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It has gained recent approval for use in the United States and the European Union for treating lower respiratory infections caused by RSV in children. Given its extended half-life, a study has explored the potential of Nirsevimab in preventing RSV infection among healthy children.
|
Prophylactic oropharyngeal surfactant with continuous positive airway pressure in preterm infants
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on February 12th, 2024
|
|
Preterm infants face an increased risk of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome due to their underdeveloped lung status. The conventional management approach, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), yields suboptimal outcomes in neonates. Given their deficient surfactant levels—a crucial blend of phospholipids and proteins preventing alveolar collapse—intubation becomes necessary for surfactant administration. Nevertheless, neonatal endotracheal intubation is linked to various adverse effects. Consequently, a study investigates the potential enhancement of respiratory outcomes through the prophylactic administration of oropharyngeal surfactant before applying CPAP.
|
Comparative Effectiveness of Recombinant FluBlok Quadrivalent Influenza Vaccine
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on February 2nd, 2024
|
|
The conventional influenza vaccine is typically manufactured using chicken eggs, leading to potential mutations in the hemagglutinin antigen and mismatches between the vaccine and circulating viruses. Sanofi's FluBlok Quadrivalent Influenza vaccine employs a recombinant process that eliminates the need for chicken eggs, thereby reducing the likelihood of mutation-related mismatches. The findings of a study evaluating the vaccine effectiveness of the recombinant FluBlok Quadrivalent Influenza vaccine (RIV4) have recently been published in the New England Journal of Medicine.
|
Effectiveness of mRNA-1345 vaccine in preventing RSV-associated lower respiratory tract disease
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on January 31st, 2024
|
|
The existing vaccines designed to protect against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) leverage the pre-fusion glycoprotein F (preF) as the primary antigen, demonstrating their efficacy. Moderna, a pharmaceutical company, has recently employed mRNA technology, previously utilized for the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, to generate RSV protein. The results of a study evaluating the effectiveness of an RSV preF mRNA vaccine have been published in the New England Journal of Medicine.
|
Treating non-small-cell lung cancer with a RET kinase inhibitor, Selpercatinib
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on January 10th, 2024
|
|
For patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) without mutation to the EGFR and ALK, the current standard therapy is a combination of pembrolizumab with a platinum-based drug and pemetrexed. However, little is known about its effect on NSCLC cases with mutation to the RET kinase. Selpercatinib is a highly selective RET kinase inhibitor, so a study was conducted to assess its effectiveness in treating non-small-cell lung cancer.
|
Preventing Postoperative Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Recurrence with Durvalumab
|
Reviewed & Translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on November 27th, 2023
|
|
In almost 30% of all non-small-cell lung cancer cases, the disease can be treated by surgically removing the tumor. However, disease recurrence happened in about half of these patients within 5 years of resection. Concurrent usage of chemotherapy had only improved the five-year survival rate by 5%. As a result, many attempts had been made to figure out a better solution, including a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine that assessed the usage of Durvalumab.
|
Evaluating Tarlatamab as a Treatment for Recurrent Small-Cell Lung Cancer
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on November 15th, 2023
|
|
Small-cell lung cancer is known for its aggressive nature and tendency to recur even after initial treatment. Secondary therapy options are limited, with existing treatments demonstrating relatively low effectiveness. Tarlatamab, a bispecific T-cell engager, works by enhancing the detection of cancer cells expressing DLL-3 by the patient's T-cells, thereby increasing the likelihood of destroying these cancer cells. Amgen, a pharmaceutical company, sponsored a study to evaluate the effectiveness of Tarlatamab as a treatment for small-cell lung cancer.
|
Supplementing inhaled amikacin to prevent respiratory infection in patients undergoing mechanical ventilation
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on November 10th, 2023
|
|
Due to the invasive nature of mechanical ventilation, it frequently increases the risk of respiratory infection that can be fatal. It is possible that antibiotic prophylaxis could be prescribed to these patients to prevent infection. Following this rationale, the French Ministry of Health had sponsored a study to assess the effectiveness of using inhaled amikacin to prevent respiratory infection in patients who were undergoing mechanical ventilation.
|
Treating solid tumors with KRAS G12C mutation by using Divarasib
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on September 18th, 2023
|
|
Previous studies had shown that 12% of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and 4% of colorectal cancer cases possess a glycine-to-cysteine mutation at the 12th amino acid of the KRAS protein. These cases of cancer are frequently treated with anti-tumor agents like Sotorasib and Adagrasib; however, their efficacy is suboptimal. Thus, amore potent KRAS G12C inhibitor is needed. Recently, a study published their findings on the effectiveness and safety of Divarasib in the New England Journal of Medicine.
|
Reducing the type 2 inflammation underlying chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder with dupilumab
Topic: RESPIRATORY
|
Reviewed & by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on August 21st, 2023
|
|
The pathophysiology behind chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) is driven by type 2 inflammation which is coordinated by cytokines such as IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13. Dupilumab is a monoclonal antibody that can bind to a receptor that is shared between IL-4 and IL-13. It was hypothesized that the interruption of dupilumab can reduce the intensity of inflammation and the severity of COPD.
|
The effectiveness osimertinib in treating non-small-cell lung cancer
|
Reviewed & by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on August 9th, 2023
|
|
The current treatment regimen for non-small-cell lung cancer included a surgical resection of the tumor followed by adjuvant chemotherapy. However, the latter long-term treatment had low efficacy in preventing recurrence and death, especially in patients with mutation to the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Osimertinib is an agent that can bind to and inhibit both wild type and mutant EGFR. AstraZeneca had sponsored a study to assess the effectiveness of Osimertinib, and the finding had been published in the New England Journal of Medicine.
|
The effect of glucocorticoids in community-acquired pneumonia
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by Nhi Phuong Quynh Le, B.A |
Posted on June 28th, 2023
|
|
The inflammation associated with pneumonia can result in gas exchange impairment and the degree of inflammation correlates with the risk of death. Glucocorticoids, such as hydrocortisone, have a strong anti-inflammatory effect. Thus, a study was conducted to investigate its effect in reducing mortality associated with community-acquired pneumonia.
|
The effectiveness of intranasal corticosteroids in treating chronic rhinosinusitis and its effect on the microbiome
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by An Duc Thien Le |
Posted on May 24th, 2023
|
|
To alleviate the consistent inflammation caused by chronic sinusitis, intranasal corticosteroids are administered. However, there is little evidence about the efficacy in the pediatric population. Plus, the effect of intranasal corticosteroids on the nasal microbiome is unknown. A study, recently published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, had investigated how the effect intranasal corticosteroids has on the quality of life of children with chronic sinusitis.
|
The effectiveness and safety of the RSVpreF vaccine when used in the elders
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by An Duc Thien Le |
Posted on May 15th, 2023
|
|
RSV infection in the elderly is especially worrisome because it can be exacerbated by coexisting conditions. Currently, there has not been any vaccine approved for this demographic. The pharmaceutical company Pfizer had funded a study that investigated the effectiveness of the bivalent RSV prefusion F protein−based (RSVpreF) vaccine in preventing infection in the elderly.
|
Using the RSVpreF vaccine during pregnancy to prevent RSV infection in infants
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
Translated by An Duc Thien Le |
Posted on May 10th, 2023
|
|
Infection with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of death in children younger than 6 months old who live in low to middle income countries. Vaccinating the expecting mother can lead to transplacental transfer of protective antibodies, which have been effective against tetanus, pertussis, and SARS-CoV-2. Thus, a study, funded by Pfizer, was conducted to investigate whether the maternal immunization with the RSVpreF vaccine can be used to prevent illness in neonates
|
Testing the usage of a short regimen therapy to treat tuberculosis
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on March 13th, 2023
|
|
The current regimen most commonly used to treat tuberculosis includes rifampin for 6 months. This strategy is highly effective when implemented perfectly; however, the long-term duration of the treatment limits the effectiveness in underdeveloped areas. Thus, the Singapore National Medical Research Council had conducted a study to assess the effectiveness of a shorter regimen in treating tuberculosis.
|
Using the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) to prevent pneumonia in the elderly population
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on February 24th, 2023
|
|
In 2013, the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) was approved for pediatric usage in the United States. After 3 years of implementation, there was a steep decline in the incidence of invasive pneumococcal disease. Thus, the vaccine was recommended for the elderly population and the surveillance study conducted since 2014 had published their findings in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
|
RSVPreF3 OA, a novel vaccine to prevent respiratory syncytial virus infection
Topic: INFECTIOUS DISEASE, RESPIRATORY
|
Reviewed by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
|
Posted on February 20th, 2023
|
|
Annually, many elderly people experience severe and lethal infection with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). There is currently no available vaccine to prevent this infection; thus, the pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline had created one that targets the F glycoprotein on RSV. This structure is essential for viral binding and cell entry, so the study theorized that the AS01E-adjuvanted RSV prefusion F protein–based candidate vaccine (RSVPreF3 OA) can be effective at preventing RSV infection.
|